The effectiveness of audio-visual training on non-native English speech production and perception

Abstract

This Project examines the effectiveness of audio-visual training on non-native English speech perception. Previous research utilizing audio-visual training has been employed in the field of speech pathology, showing positive outcomes on improving speech among dyslexic children. However, few studies to date have examined its use in second language learning, specifically labial and labiodental consonants (i.e., /b, p, m, f, v/), which are known to be challenging for many second language learners. The aim of this project is to explore audio-visual training across 3 native language groups, Mandarin, Japanese, and Arabic, who are all English language learners. Participants undergo a training regimen designed to examine the effects of audio-visual and audio-only training. We hypothesized that perception performance will improve after two days of training and will improve more after audio-visual training and 2) perception improvement will rely heavily on a participants’ language background and known difficulties with specific labial and labiodental sounds. Results from this study showed audio-visual training having no effect on Mandarin and Arabic speakers but an effect on Japanese speakers. Additional results suggest that the effectiveness of audio-visual training may be language-specific, which may have pedagogical implications on its use in second language teaching and learning